Can gut health affect skin conditions?

Written by
Tran Quang
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.The health of your gut is usually reflected in your skin because the inflammation caused by dysbiosis presents itself to the outside world. This dysfunction of your intestinal barrier allows toxins to enter your bloodstream, causing inflammatory changes in your skin tissue and thereby taxing your immune system. By identifying gut health issues in my clients with stubborn acne, I have successfully resolved them without the need for topical treatments.
Inflammatory Response
- Leaky gut allows bacterial endotoxins into bloodstream
- Triggers systemic inflammation affecting skin cells
- Causes redness swelling and irritation patterns
Microbial Imbalance
- Harmful bacteria produce toxins damaging skin barrier
- Reduces protective oils increasing sensitivity
- Disrupts natural pH balance promoting breakouts
Hormonal Influence
- Gut bacteria regulate estrogen metabolism
- Imbalances cause hormonal acne flare-ups
- Affects oil production and pore congestion
Reduce inflammatory triggers like sugar, dairy, and processed foods, which feed harmful bacteria. These worsen gut permeability and skin reactions. I help clients follow elimination diets and identify individual triggers. I have them replace troublesome foods with anti-inflammatory foods.
Prioritize foods rich in collagen and fermented foods to support gut barrier healing. Bone broth provides amino acids that help strengthen both the skin and the gut lining. I do this by combining it with daily kimchi to increase beneficial bacteria. This two-pronged approach is effective in reducing systemic inflammation.
Regulate histamine reactions for conditions like rosacea. Avoid aged cheese, alcohol, and cured meats. I recommend fresh food with natural antihistamines such as apples and onions. Drinking peppermint tea would cool and reduce inflammation in the gut and skin.
You will notice skin benefits within four to six weeks of dedicating yourself to improving your gut health. First, you will notice *less* redness and a *fewer* breakouts. I take monthly photos of my clients' progress to visually document their progress. Patience with dietary changes can lead to lasting skin improvement from the inside.
Read the full article: Understanding Gut Health Importance for Overall Wellness